There is something about fresh herbs that just makes a person feel special. Fresh herbs are simply great, and even if you are new to herb gardening, planting a single herb in a small container in a pot or container garden is a great way to get started. You might be thinking that it is too difficult to begin with, but when you get really into herb gardening, things just start clicking. You will find that you are actually able to enjoy the process more than you did when you started. This article will help you learn some of the easiest herbs to grow in pots, so that you can grow your favorite herbs right in your very own kitchen.
When you are planting herbs in pots, you are not limited by growing conditions in your garden. Mediterranean herbs like mint, Rosemary, and thyme can thrive in water as well as a dry climate. While you are planting, keep in mind that watering is important, so pay close attention to watering instructions on your plant tag. Not only will this save you tons of time later on, it is important to avoid the loss of moisture on your plants while they are growing.
This may seem obvious, but one of the best and easiest herbs to grow in pots is basil. It is extremely easy to care for and grows quite well in all types of weather. As an added bonus, it smells delicious and tastes great when you make your own pesto sauce. Basil is one of those easy herbs to love, but it is also one of those “grow and see and you’ll enjoy the result” kind of things. Just remember that it takes a little bit more work than most other herbs in your herb garden.
Sage and tarragon are two other herbs that are popular container gardening favorites. Both are perennials and can grow for years if cared for properly. They do require a bit more work than other, easy-to-care for herbs, but in return, you will receive a spectacular display of color year-round from these plants. Both varieties should be potted in pots with dark, crinkly potting soil. Pots of both varieties should have sturdy support, such as gravel or flagstone, beneath the soil to hold in moisture.
Garlic and ginger are also herbs that are often chosen for planting in a container garden. While they look great in a window box or hanging basket, their best growing location is on a sunny windowsill. This is another favorite of amateur gardeners alike who want to reap the health benefits of fresh garlic or ginger right at their fingertips.
Parsley is one of the easiest herbs to grow in pots. When grown in a garden, the tiny purple-flowering basil can stay hidden among the greenery of the garden while blooming for up to six weeks. The tiny red-or-blue flowers need only be watered once a week. Like mint, basil likes a well-draining soil that has plenty of drainage holes in it. Planting basil in a pot that is placed directly on the ground in full sunlight will help keep roots from getting the nutrients they need.
Like most flowering plants, basil requires constant moisture so frequent watering is necessary. To help keep roots moist and minimize drying out, prune the plant regularly. If the soil is too dry, it will lose its fragrance as well as color to the air. Keep the tops of pots covered when the weather starts getting cooler. In the spring, it will be necessary to repeat dry basil but do not do it until the soil is warm and dry.
Sunlight is the third requirement for growing plants. As the herbs mature, they will require more sun but will still love the occasional evening light. There is really nothing wrong with getting your herbs a little extra sunlight during the hot summer months. Just make sure you give them time to acclimate to the sunlight before trying to re-pot them. In addition to providing necessary sunlight, fresh herbs need regular fertilization.